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07 January 2015

Election ephemera: Tavistock

Devon election ephemera : Tavistock constituency.

There is no collected volume of addresses and squibs for this constituency, but a bound volume of ephemera has received detailed cataloguing from the British Library. This has been gratefully used for the present listing.

Tavistock. 1852. Election ballads, - no. 1. The "Old Woter;" or The windbag blown: a tale of consistency! Sung by a young woter to the tune of any thing you like. ... – [Tavistock?, 1852] . – First line of song opposing Sir John Trelawny's candidacy at the Borough of Tavistock election, 1852: In Tavistock there lived a passon, Song lyrics printed in three columns. - Held by: British Library ; Devon Heritage Centre Broadsides/031 ; Mf 4.2 fiche 1

Tavistock. 1852. Election ballads, - no. 2. Traitors, trimmers, turncoats, and Trelawny; or, Tavistock suited to a T. Air, - Young Lochinvar ... Requisitionists released, and no pledge broken ... Did mortal candidate ever so demonstrate his utter worthlessness? He is false to his declaration of April 15th, by offering himself on May 23rd, without any requisition at all! ... Trelawny blazons his own unfitness ... Is the oppressor of women and poor factory children deserving of your support? .. -[Tavistock?, 1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 44 x 29 cm. - First line of song opposing Sir John Trelawny's candidacy at the Borough of Tavistock election, 1852: Oh! the luckless Marplot he comes into the west, Verse printed in two columns, above text headed 'Requisitionists released, and no pledge broken', part of which is also printed in two columns. - Held by: British Library ; Devon Heritage Centre Broadsides/032 ; Mf 4.2 fiche 1.

Tavistock. 1852. Elector. To the electors of Tavistock : Did not Mr. Carter (a barrister!) declare again and again at the last election, that he had a legal qualification? If his qualification was legal why did he pay the first years annuity of £200 out of the £750 he received of the Duke of Bedford on the sale of Rock View, before the decision of the Committee of the House of Commons was given on his supposed qualification? If he believed he had a qualification, (he is no lawyer!) why did he pay the money? ... -[Tavistock?, 1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 29 cm. - Item concerns the election of Samuel Carter at the 1852 Borough of Tavistock election. The following year, his opponent, Sir Robert Phillimore, was seated in his place. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-03-31. Russell, Edward Southwell. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, a speedy dissolution of the present Parliament being expected, I take as early an opportunity as possible to inform you that it is not my intention to offer myself as a candidate for the Borough of Tavistock at the approaching election ... -[London, 1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 21 cm. - Signed and dated at end: Edward Southwell Russell. 3, Carlton Terrace, March 31st, 1852. Lithographed sheet. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-04-20. Friend. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Tune-- "The Queen, God bless her." ... -[Tavistock] : J. L. Commins, printer, West-Street, Tavistock [1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - First line of song in support of Samuel Carter's candidacy at the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1852: Let us vote for the man who hath vouched to fulfil. Signed and dated at end: A friend. April 20th, 1852. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-04-29. Carter, Samuel. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, I cannot retire from the town for the purpose of attending to those duties to which you have so honourably elected me, without thanking you sincerely for the manner in which you have conferred upon me the distinction of being your representative ... to those manly and independent electors of the working and trading class who backed me so nobly at the poll, my warm acknowledgments for their spontaneous and disinterested support are due ... permit me to avail myself of this opportunity to thank the non-electors and working men for the order, decorum, and kindness towards me, that they have manifested throughout this contest ... -[Tavistock] : J.L. Commins, printer, West-Street, Tavistock [1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Item concerns the Borough of Tavistock election in 1852. Signed and dated at end: Samuel Carter, Rockview, 29th April, 1852. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-05-12. Phillimore, Robert. Electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, being informed that a report has been spread of my intention to resign my pretensions to the honour of representing you in the next Parliament, I hasten to give that report an unqualified contradiction ... I profess my attachment to the constitution, as the source and guardian of our freedom. - Respecting all conscientious scruples, and sincere in my zeal for religious as well as civil liberty, I wish to give to every religious body the same freedom which I claim for that to which I myself belong; and for this I ask nothing but fair play ... -[Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer & bookbinder, Tavistock [1852]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Item concerns the Borough of Tavistock election in 1852. Signed and dated at end: Robert Phillimore. May 12th, 1852. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1852-05-22. Byng, George. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, having completed my canvass, and received the most friendly and flattering promises of support, I beg to return my grateful thanks to those of the constituency, by whose votes I trust to be returned to Parliament ... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1852]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm.. - Signed and dated at end: George H. C. Byng. Tavistock, May 22nd, 1852. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-05-25. To the electors of Tavistock : The prodigal son is about to return, humble and penitent, and John will promise, that if you forgive him this once, he will be a good boy, and transgress no more. You will shortly have the opportunity of seeing him perambulating the streets, accompanied by his keeper and advisor, the local Mr. Love ... Air. - "Stop dat knocking." ... -[Tavistock] : J. L. Commins, printer, West-Street, Tavistock [1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - First line of song opposing Sir John Trelawny's candidacy at the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1852: John said, "once more I'll try my fate,". - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1852-06-04. Phillimore, Robert J. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, having received from the gentlemen in this Borough who supported me at the last election a requisition to become again a candidate for the representation of Tavistock: I have thought it only due to the principles which I profess ... to answer the requisition by coming to Tavistock and stating fully and fankly to you my political opinions. Having done so, I will leave it to my committee to decide whether or not I shall be a candidate at the ensuing election ... -[Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer & bookbinder, Tavistock [1852] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated: Robert J. Phillimore. April 12th, 1852. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1855-11-23. Byng, George. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, being in your neighbourhood for a few days, I am most anxious to meet you ... in the public room, at the Bedford Hotel, on Wednesday next, November the 28th, ... - [Tavistock?, 1855]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at end: George Byng. Tavistock, Friday, November 23rd, 1855. Lithographed sheet. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1855-12-15. Pearse, John. To the electors of Tavistock : At a preliminary meeting held at the Guildhall on the 11th Dec. 1855, John Pearse Esq., in the chair. It was resolved: - 1st. That this meeting anxious for a Liberal representative for the Borough of Tavistock in the British House of Parliament, do hereby agree to seek for some gentleman ... 2nd. - That a committee be appointed to confer with J. S. Trelawny, Esq., to learn if he is disposed to offer himself as a candidate for the representation of this Borough in a future Parliament ... My dear sir, ... I need hardly say that the resolution mentioning my name is exceeedingly [sic] kind and flattering to me ... John S. Trelawny ... - [Tavistock] : George Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., Tavistock [1855]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 28 cm. - Signed and dated at end: John Pearse, chairman. Tavistock, December 15th, 1855. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1855-12-17. Carter, Samuel. To the electors and inhabitants of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, I am informed that a movement has been commenced among you to provide a Liberal candidate for Tavistock at the next general election, founded on my assumed want of qualification, I therefore hasten to meet this supposed contingency, and to assure my friends that it is my firm intention as I stand a pledged candidate to contest the election, and that I am fully and legally qualified to represent them (if chosen) according to the requirements of the act of Parliament ... -[Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer, &c., Tavistock [1855]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 51 x 32 cm. - Signed and dated at end: Samuel Carter. Temple, 17th December, 1855. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1855-12-31. Trelawny, John. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, I hasten to acknowledge, with much thankfulness, a requisition, numerously signed, inviting me to become a candidate for the representation of Tavistock. I have now to announce that I accept it without hesitation ... A seat in Parliament, honorably and usefully filled, is the highest object of my ambition ... Few of my chief friends and instructors now remain. Hume, Buller, Molesworth are numbered with the departed ... Waiting the moment which shall recall me to public life, and purposing to take frequent opportunities of renewing my acquaintance with you ... - [Tavistock] : Feaston and Co., printers and bookbinders, West-Street, Tavistock [1855]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated at end: John S. Trelawny. Kensington, December 31st, 1855. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1856-01-19. Trelawny, John S. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, agreeably to my second engagement, I have taken the first opportunity of visiting the town of Tavistock, with a view of seeing my numerous friends there. At first, the idea of a public meeting naturally suggested itself. ; But, on reflection, I considered that it would scarcely be in accordance with usage to invite you to meet me at a moment when there was no certainty of an immediate dissolution, and the sitting members had not issued their addresses. Under the circumstances I contented myself with calling upon you at your residences ... - [London?, 1856]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at end: John S. Trelawny. Kensington, January 19th, 1856. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-05. Trelawny, John S. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, understanding that a dissolution of Parliament may be expected to take place within a short period, I deem it to be respectful to the numerous body of electors ... to state that my desire to serve them in Parliament remains unabated ... Tavistock, gentlemen, is sincere in its political views, fearless in its expression of them, and liberal to the core .... - [Tavistock] : G. Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 48 x 31 cm. - Signed and dated at end: John S. Trelawny. March 5th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-06. Carter, Samuel. To the electors and inhabitants of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, a speedy dissolution of Parliament having rendered an address from me, as a long declared candidate, seasonable and becoming, I take the opportunity to appeal to you upon a question involving more than the mere choice of a representative, namely,- the assertion of a principle, and a protest against injustice. By the irreversible decree of a committee of the House of Commons in 1853, I was removed from a charge you had twice entrusted to me; and your liberty of choice, and rights of representation were violated without power of appeal or protest. By a re-election, and on the floor of the House of Commons, I seek to vindicate myself and you ... I publish the following opinion of an eminent parliamentary counsel on my present qualification ... The again bringing forward Mr. Trelawny was only in consequence (as alleged) of the supposed defect of my qualification. To him I say - upon what pretence can he come forward to oppose my re-election when the only admitted ground of objection is removed? ... With principles unchanged, with energy unabated, I offer myself to be again your representative .... - [Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer & bookbinder, Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 51 x 33 cm. - Signed and dated at end: Samuel Carter, Temple, March 6th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-09. Byng, George. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, the recent vote of censure upon the existing administration has induced Her Majesty's Government to dissolve the present Parliament at the earliest period ... The seat I occupy will therefore be again at your disposal, and I venture to solicit a continuance of the honour and confidence I have enjoyed at your hands during the last five years ... Let me briefly refer to those measures of domestic policy which I have supported, and which, if again returned by you to Parliament, will enlist my best advocacy and support ... I have voted for the abolition of church rates, the repeal of the tax known as Minister's Money in Ireland, the adoption of the vote by ballot, and measures having for their object the amendment of the law of marriage, the more effectual repression of trading on the Sabbath, and the diminution of expenses and bribery at elections ... In accordance, ... with the great principle of 'civil and religious liberty,' I voted on repeated occasions, for the admission of Jews to Parliament, and that my dissenting fellow-subjects should be permitted to enjoy the benefits and privilges of education in our universities ... If returned again to my legislative duties, I shall continue to give that government a firm, though independent support .... - [Tavistock] : G. Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., Tavistock [1857]. - [3] sheets ; 25 x 18 cm. - Printed on blue paper, on one side of each sheet only. Signed and dated at end: George Byng, Albermarle Street, London, March 9th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-09. Byng, George. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, the recent vote of censure upon the existing administration has induced Her Majesty's Government to dissolve the present Parliament at the earliest period ... The seat I occupy will therefore be again at your disposal, and I venture to solicit a continuance of the honour and confidence I have enjoyed at your hands during the last five years ... Let me briefly refer to those measures of domestic policy which I have supported, and which, if again returned by you to Parliament, will enlist my best advocacy and support ... I have voted for the abolition of church rates, the repeal of the tax known as Minister's Money in Ireland, the adoption of the vote by ballot, and measures having for their object the amendment of the law of marriage, the more effectual repression of trading on the Sabbath, and the diminution of expenses and bribery at elections ... In accordance, ... with the great principle of 'civil and religious liberty,' I voted on repeated occasions, for the admission of Jews to Parliament, and that my dissenting fellow-subjects should be permitted to enjoy the benefits and privilges of education in our universities ... If returned again to my legislative duties, I shall continue to give that government a firm, though independent support .... - [Tavistock] : G. Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 49 x 31 cm. - Signed and dated at end: George Byng, Albermarle Street, London, March 9th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-12. Englishman. Electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, very soon you will be called upon to do your duty to yourselves an the non-electors, in the selection of a gentleman to represent you in Parliament. The friends of Sir John Trelawny, depending far more on a requisition signed by many of you more than twelve months since, than on the support which a full communication of his present political views would receive,- seem to regard his election as certain ... It is your duty to call on Sir John Trelawny, as a high-minded and honourable man, at once to make waste paper of that requisition, and boldly present himself to the electors solely on the merits of whatever past services he may have performed, and whatever political opinions he now possesses .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 28 cm. - Signed at end: An Englishman. Kilworthy Lane, Tavistock, March 12th.- Year of confusion. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-13. Few Patriots. Vive le mensonge! : To the electors of Tavistock ... Electors! "Englishman" is quite right. Promises obtained at elections are only binding where their fulfilment suits the interest of the person who has promised. A promise is only a clever trap. If inconvenient, the remedy is simple; repudiate it. You do not half know your business! ... Excuse our freedom. If through a tyrant majority we have no votes- at least we may influence the fortunate enfranchised. Being about to serve our country in the colonies, we evince our gratitude to society- by a legacy of good advice.. - [Princetown, 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed at end: A few patriots. Dartmoor Prison, March 13th, 1857. The poster quotes part of the previous poster entitled "Electors of Tavistock," which was signed by "An Englishman," and refers to the requisition issued to Sir John Trelawny (1816-1885) mentioned there. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-13. Homo. To the electors of Tavistock : The "Plymouth journal" of yesterday, contained a statement that Mr. Carter "has not the ghost of a chance" of being returned for this Borough, and also that "he is doing the Tories' work." Mr. Carter in his address last evening was most indignant with the author of these statements, and boldly asserted that no one could charge him with ever having aided the Tories ... What think you of Mr. Carter's exhibition last evening on the subject of his "qualification"?- Was it honest? ... Think for yourselves, and then say whether there was not a miserable attempt at evasion .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 39 x 26 cm. - Signed and dated at end: Homo. Tavistock, 13th March, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-13. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, at a performance given on Thursday night in the ball-room, ... Mr. Carter, ... endeavoured to treat with derision and ridicule the address of his opponent, Sir John Trelawny ... Can any man be qualified to be a member of Parliament whose energy is tempered by no discretion; whose fluency of speech is allowed to run riot into an unbecoming licence; who respects so little the usages of society, as to read in public, without the consent of the writer, private correspondence; ... The answer must be that Mr. Carter is in no way entitled to our support .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 51 x 29 cm. - Printed on yellow paper. Signed and dated at end: An elector. Tavistock, March 13th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-14. Committee of Investigation. To the "doubting" electors of Tavistock : Do not pledge yourselves! All doubts as to the legality of Mr. Samuel Carter's parliamentary qualification will be removed in the course of a few days, by the publication of the opinion of an eminent counsel on the subject, and the documents on which that opinion is founded, open for the inspection of all sceptics. The whole case, as fairly and honestly submitted by Mr. Carter to Mr. Slade, Q.C., with his opinion thereon, can be seen at any time on application to Mr. T. Dunn, St. Matthew Street .... - [Tavistock] : T.S. Chave, printer, Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 29 x 22 cm. - Signed and dated at end: Committee of Investigation, Saturday evening, March 14. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Wanted to borrow by a "perfect gentleman," : a few sets of deeds to qualify the said party to "vindicate his rights on the floor of the House of Commons:" no person need apply who has not unbounded confidence that the same deeds shall be again returned. For further particulars apply at the Criminal Court of Assize, Exeter; or to the terror of the two western counties.. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 29 cm. - Satirical item, referring to the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-16. Non-Elector. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, ... a requisition ... signed by 114 electors, was sent to Mr. Trelawny twelve months since. In proof of his compliance with the request, Mr. Trelawny visited you, and received from a large proportion of the constituency the promise of their support. The "next election" has now come, and Sir John Trelawny is here ... Sir John Trelawny, as an honourable man, could not have assumed that this requisition was no logner valid, it would have been most insulting to those who sent it ... Sir John Trelawny is well known to you, he does not go into the House of Commons to advance his private interests, the welfare of "the people" is his object, to advance their interests his aim. You can trust him- do your duty to "the non-electors" .... - [Tavistock], 1857. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated at the end: A non-elector. March 16th, 1857. Excerpt from the requisition to Mr. Trelawny printed at the head of the title. The item refers to a previously issued poster entitled, "Electors of Tavistock," signed by "an Englishman" and dated March, 12, [1857]. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Briton. To the electors of Tavistock : brother electors, the time rapidly approaches when your final decision will terminate this contested election ... Your task of determining the respective claims of the rival candidates still lies before you, and to which you must address yourselves undeterred by the contemptible levity that has burlesqued your scruples about the Trelawny requisition, by comparing them to the moral code of convict sharpers ... On you devolves the choice of a candidate who shall represent the democracy ... Do you think Sir J. Trelawny is one of the people? Is he not rather an aristocrat popularizing himself among the middle-class in order to obtain a seat in Parliament? ... On the other hand we have Mr. Carter, reared and brought up among us, and illustrating in his own person what energy and perseverance can effect in an honourable career ... Mr. Carter's "positional condition" allies him more closely to you than does the other candidate's .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 51 x 31 cm. - Signed at the end: A briton. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Electors of Tavistock : who voted in favor of rising the rent of his tenants in Higher Back Street, 75 per cent? Carter Electors! What think you of such a man as this! To represent you in Parliament?. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-16. Grub-well, Creep-er and Co. Electors of Tavistock : Dont [sic] pledge! Another candidate is expected in the field- one that will give his support to any measure that may be introduced for the further relief of "bankrupts and common informers." (Signed) Mess-ers Grub-well, Creep-er & Co. Dated Bank of Impudence, March, 16th 1857.. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) : 45 x 29 cm. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-19. Tavistock. 1857-03-19. Missing : A number of ticket of leave men, supposed to be secreted at Tavistock, in order to swamp respectable voters at public meetings during the ensuing election. They may be easily known by their ferocious yells and craven countenances- characteristic of the dangerous classes. They particularly object to proper qualification, and are uniformly advocates of a measure favourable to the easy transfer of chattel interests. Dated, March 19th, 1857. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 39 cm. - Satirical item, referring to the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1857-03-21. Tavistock. 1857-03-21. Committee of Investigation. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, the "deeds" on which Mr. Carter's Parliamentary qualification is founded have been submittted to R.P. Collier, Esq., G.C. ... The Committee have also received a letter from Mr. M.S. Richards, of Stoke, expressing his entire approval of Mr. Carter's conduct in retaining the deeds; and offers to give him additional assistance, if necessary, to render Mr. Carter's qualification unimpeachable ... - [Tavistock] : T.S. Chave, printer & bookbinder, Tavistock ... [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Signed and dated at end of text: Committee of Investigation. Dated March 21st, 1857. Includes an excerpt from the report of R.P. Collier, Esq., G.C. confirming the legality of Mr. Carter's deeds. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1857-03-21. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, it is not my intention to offer myself as a candidate for your Borough at the approaching election. I have endeavoured to fulfil every promise direct or indirect which I ever made to you. I have been assiduous in the performance of my Parliamentary duties. I think I may say that the representation of your constituency has not been discredited by the part which I have taken in the debates in Parliament. I have only to regret that you are not satisfied with my services. I beg to return my thanks to my former supporters, and to expresss my hope that your Borough may be more ably represented in Parliament than it has been by your obedient servant, Robert Phillimore. 5, Arlington Street, London, Saturday, March 21st, 1857. - [Tavistock] : T.S. Chave, printer, & c., Tavistock , [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 28 cm. - Held At: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1857-03-24. Terror. Hypocrisy! : An easy leason [sic] for young politicians, such as "Homo," "Elector," and "Non-elector," which can be comprehended by an "ordinary capacity," and may possibly have a "reactionary tendency," although in words not exceeding two syllables .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Signed and dated at the end: "The terror." March 24th, 1857. Satirical item, containing an allegorical story, which figuratively refers to Sir John Trelawny (1816-1885). The names "Homo," "Elector," and "Non-elector" refer to the authors of previously issued single sheets, which are all entitled "To the electors of Tavistock." The first two single sheets are dated March 13th, 1857 and the third is dated March 16th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-24. Lost! : A large quantity of the "manners and feelings of gentlemen,"- supposed to have been dropped whilst going to the Committee Room, at the Bedford Hotel. Since the loss the late owners have exhibited all the symptoms of a deficiency in honour and morals, that naturally might have been expected. The former they have shewn by constant attempts to delude the electors into believing the miserable jesuitical subterfuge about the Trelawney declaration of 1852; and also by describing the non-electors as thieves, possessing "craven countenances" and uttering "ferocious yells." The latter, or moral perversion, has been illustrated by a total want of political principle or consistency; and by the absurdest and falsest charges against Mr. Carter. "Hurrah for a lie," is their motto; and "electioneering justifies every artifice and the meanest trickery"- their creed. Electors! Beware of such men!! Whoever shall find, and return the missing virtues, shall be rewarded with a lock of the candidate's hair, his portrait, and his autograph. Anti-Herring. Dated March 24, 1857. -[Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Satirical item, referring to the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1857-03-27. Seeker after Truth. To the electors and non-electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, the great obstacle and barrier that was in the way in reference to Mr. Carter's qualification and doubt is now removed, and we hope now every thing will go on glorious; and those gentlemen who stood aloof from him for fear of their votes being thrown away, will come to a speedy conclusion and support him and send him as one of the representatives of the Borough of Tavistock to Parliament. The honourable Mr. Byng's retnrn [sic] is quite sure, and the present contest is very likely to be between Mr. Carter and Mr. Trelawny; and now, gentlemen, it is for you to say which of these two gentlemen shall be your choice ... We are very soon going to raise the standard in our town, and will you not rally around it, and support the honorable [sic] Mr. Byng and Mr. Carter .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 28 cm. - Signed and dated at the end: A seeker after truth. Dated Tavistock, March 27th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-30. Carter, Samuel. To the electors and inhabitants of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, while the warm hearts and earnest voices of the thousands that inhabit within the boundaries of your borough have testified during the late election the unbounded confidence which they reposed in me, the votes of the majority of the small privileged class have been so unmistakably pronounced against me, and in favour of my competitors, that I feel forbidden to say, ... "expect me again as a candidate amongst you!" .... - [Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer, &c., Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Samuel Carter. Tavistock, March 30th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-30. Trelawny, John S. To the electors of Tavistock : Gentlemen, I hasten to return you my sincere thanks for the high honour you have for the third time conferred upon me. I go to the House of Commons with an intention to vote carefully, dispassionately, and honestly, and, if possible, to justify your choice by rendering the public some service. .... - [Tavistock] : Feaston and Co., printers and bookbinders, West-Street, Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 46 x 30 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: John S. Trelawny. Tavistock, March 30th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03-31. Byng, George. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, I beg you to accept my most sincere and grateful thanks, for being again returned to serve as one of your representatives in Parliament. .... - [London, 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 24 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: George Byng. London, March 31st, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Forlorn & Hope. Devon Lent assizes, 1857 : In re the Tavistock election: case submitted for the opinion of counsel on the question of C(h)artarism. Notice! Mr. Tartar, fortified with the unequivocal opinions of Messrs. Splade & Tollier, and assisted by their "assumptions" and "thoughts" will appear as heretofore on the hustings and in his accustomed style of forensick eloquence address himself courteously to the opposing candidates. He will at the same time take the opportunity of conciliating his former supporters by touching on some of those pleasant reminiscences that so often tend to the embellishment of his orations. Forlorn & Hope, solicitors, Unqualified Row, Cheapside.. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Satirical item, referring to the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Non-Elector. Requisitionist electors : Those of you who signed the Trelawny requisition, under inducements that you now believe were not strictly fair- yet, feel yourselves morally bound to support Sir John Trelawny- may do so; but at the same time you will be able to neutralise your vote, by voting also for Mr. Carter. Thus you will redeem what you consider to be a pledge, and at the same time support the man of your choice. Fair Play.. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 28 cm. - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 22 x 28 cm. - Verse; first line- "Secure to be-friend you regardless of threats,".
Signed at end: A Non-elector. Acrostic poem, with the first letters of each line spelling out Samuel Carter's name. In support of Samuel Carter's candidacy at the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-03? Here you have printed & published a copy of verses giving a full, true, and particular account of the bold young Samivell : Tune:- "Villikins and his dinah." .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 46 x 29 cm. - Verse; first line- "It's of a young man who in Tavistock did dwell,".
Song referring to Samuel Carter's candidacy at the Tavistock Parliamentary election, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-08-28. Byng, George. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, A telegraphic communication reached me in Germany last Tuesday evening, inviting me to stand for my native county, Middlesex, a vacancy having occurred through the elevation of Lord Robert Grosvenor to the Peerage. I did not feel justified in resisting ... Our political connexion is therefore severed, but I have great difficulty in expressing my grateful thanks and sincere acknowledgements for the confidence I have enjoyed during the last five years at your hands. .... - [London, 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 21 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: George Byng. London, August 28th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-08-29. Russell, Arthur. Notice to the constituency. Mr. Arthur Russell solicits the attendance of the constituency at the Ball Room, Bedford Hotel, this evening, Saturday, at seven o'clock, for the purpose of explaining to them, his political principles and opinions, as a candidate for the representation of the Borough of Tavistock. .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 33 x 51 cm. - Dated at foot: Bedford Hotel, Tavistock 29th [August] 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-08-31. Notice!!! A public meeting will be held this evening at half-past 7, in the Ball Room when the deputation who have waited on Mr. Arthur Russell, will give the meeting his reply : They hope also to be in a position to say when Sir W. Clay will address them. .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 33 cm. - At foot: Dated Tavistock, August 31st, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-09? Elector. Electors of Tavistock. His Grace the Duke of Bedford has stated, through Mr. Pryce Michell, that he has no preference for Mr. Arthur Russell, or any other candidate; but his earnest desire is - that you should exercise your right freely and without reference to his interests, and he will be best pleased by your electing the best man. An Elector : A meeting of the inhabitants will be held at the Ball Room, this evening, at half-past 7. .... - [Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer & bookbinder, Tavistock ... [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - At foot: Dated August 31st 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-09-02. Miall, Edward. To the independent electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, A deputation from your body waited upon me yesterday afternoon in town, and earnestly solicited me to become a candidate for the seat in your Borough recently vacated by the Hon. George Byng. Having learnt that their object was to assert for the electors of Tavistock their right to the free choice of their representatives ... I have consented to their urgent request, and frankly appeal to your decision. .... - [Tavistock] : G. Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Edward Miall. Tavistock, September 2nd, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1857-09-07. Miall, Edward. To the independent electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, The contest is over. I entered upon it, as some of you are well aware, with extreme reluctance; and, although defeated, I look back upon it without a shadow of regret. .... - [Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer, &c., Tavistock [1857]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 44 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Edward Miall. 35, Albert Square, Clapham Road, September 7th, 1857. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-01-27. Byng, George. Mr. Byng respectfully invites the attendance of the inhabitants of Tavistock to a meeting to be held at the Bedford Hotel, on Tuesday evening, February 1st, 1859, at seven o'clock : as he is anxious on that occasion to bid them personally farewell. .... - [Tavistock] : G. Spencer, printer, bookseller, etc., "Gazette Office," Tavistock [1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 29 x 45 cm. - At foot of sheet: Dated January 27th, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-05. Trelawny, John S. To the electors of Tavistock. Gentlemen, Her Majesty's advisers have recommended a dissolution of Parliament. It is perhaps a question whether, in the interests of the Conservative party, resignation would not have been a wiser course. ... It may be that Her Majesty's ministers imagine that the desire for a comprehensive measure of reform has no existence but in the minds of a few political fanatics ... : I commit to you a judgment on this and other questions upon which I have given votes in the short Parliament now about to terminate, and I solicit a renewal of that confidence which you reposed in me at the last General Election, merely adding that my opinions on all great questions of the day remain unchanged .... - [London, 1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 25 x 20 cm. - Printed on blue paper. Signed at dated at foot: John S. Trelawny. London, April 5th, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-05. Russell, Arthur. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, Lord Derby having appealed to the country from the late decision of the House of Commons, I shall solicit at the approaching General Election a renewal of the trust with which you have honoured me in the present Parliament. .... - [London, 1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Arthur Russell. House of Commons, April 5th, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-11. Russell, Arthur. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, the bill purporting to amend the representation of the people, and recommended by Lord Derby's government, has been rejected by one of the fullest Houses on record. You are now called upon to reverse that decision. I deemed it my duty to oppose that measure ... because it attempted to disfranchise a large body of electors, because it omitted an essential condition of all reform, the reduction of the Borough franchise, and because it provided ill-disguised facilities for the creation of fictitious votes. ... : I venture to solicit a renewal of your confidence .... - [London, 1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Arthur Russell. London, Audley Square, 11th April, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-20. Carter, Samuel. To the electors and inhabitants of the Borough of Tavistock : Gentlemen, A dissolution of Parliament upon the great question of reform is an occasion that calls for the active patriotism of every member of the community. Now is the time to struggle manfully for the success of those great principles which should form the basis of a settlement that may set at rest the controversy, as public men declare for this generation at least ... I do not announce myself formally as a candidate, but if my friends think fit I am willing to be elected. .... - [Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer, Tavistock [1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 38 x 26 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Samuel Carter. Temple, 20th April, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-29. Trelawny, John S. To the electors of Tavistock. Gentlemen, It is my very pleasing duty to return you sincere thanks for the great honor you have again conferred upon me in selecting me as one of your representatives. I shall endeavour in that capacity, to render to the public the best services I can offer; and, if possible, justify in some degree, the selection you have made. .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 19 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: John S. Trelawny. April 29th, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1859-04-29. Russell, Arthur. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, Allow me to offer you my grateful thanks for conferring on me the high honor of unopposed re-election as one of your representatives. It will be my duty and my pleasure to strive to retain the confidence you have so generously placed in me. ... -[Tavistock] : T. S. Chave, printer, &c., Tavistock [1859]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Arthur Russell. Bedford Hotel, April 29th, 1859. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1874-02-04. Russell, Arthur. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, I have to thank you most sincerely for the honour you have done me in electing me for the fifth time as your representative in Parliament. .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 18 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Arthur Russell. Tavistock, February 4th, 1874. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874. Political Dissenter. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, Mr. Biggs has attempted to throw dust in your eyes, in reference to the 25th clause of the Education Act ... : It is clear that the present contest is made a personal one, and that you are asked to support Mr. Biggs, mainly to spite the House of Bedford ... But what has Lord Arthur to do with this? and will you sacrifice the man who has served you faithfully, and helped to carry the measures by which you are now enabled to vote ... -[Tavistock?] : [s. n.] , [1874]. – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 26 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election and the candidacy of Lord Arthur Russell. Signed at end: A political dissenter. - Held by: British Library.

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Tavistock. 1874. Brown, Richard. Parliamentary election, 1874. - Borough of Tavistock. The poll will be taken at the several polling stations by law appointed, on Wednesday, the fourth day of February, 1874. The following are the names of the candidates, and of the persons who subscribed to their nomination: - ... : Biggs, Russell Hugh Worthington ... Russell, Arthur John Edward, commonly called Lord Arthur ... Richard Brown, returning officer.. - [Tavistock] : Chave, typ. [1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 12 x 16 cm. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02-05. Biggs, R. H. W. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, In bidding you farewell for a time, I am unable to express to you my heartfelt gratitude for the noble way in which you have supported me in fighting for you the battle of civil and religious freedom. ... : I hold it higher far to have won so high a place in your esteem after so short an acquaintance, than to be the successful candidate greeted with the marked disapprobation of the men of Tavistock. .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 23 x 18 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: R. H. W. Biggs. Bedford Hotel, Tavistock, 5th February, 1874. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02? Tavistock election will take place on Wednesday, in the Miners' Hall. Candidate first, Biggs, the Liverpool boy. Proposer, Dr. Dick. Seconder, the working miners' friend. Candidate second, Lord "Rest and be Thankful." Proposer, the wandering Christian. Seconder, Henry the Hypocrite, ... : In fairness to "Lord Rest and be Thankful" it should be stated he is for progress in reform, provided the new electors should be of his own creed .... - [Tavistock?, 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 26 cm. - Satire relating to the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02? Fair Play. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, Mr. Biggs has attempted to throw dust in your eyes, in reference to the 25th clause of the Education Act ... : It is clear that the present contest is made a personal one, and that you are asked to support Mr. Biggs, mainly to spite the House of Bedford ... But what has Lord Arthur to do with this? and will you sacrifice the man who has served you faithfully, and helped to carry the measures by which you are now enabled to vote .... - [Tavistock?, 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 29 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell. Signed at foot: Fair play. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02? Nonconformist electors of Tavistock. We are in the thick of a political fight! and although Lord Arthur Russell would throw dust into your eyes by saying there is little difference between his own and Mr. Biggs' political opinions, remember the battle is really between vital and directly opposite principles! Lord Arthur defends a State aided and a State petted Church! Mr. Biggs is the champion of religious freedom! .... - [Tavistock?, 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 26 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02? Electors of Tavistock, who gave you the ballot? Lord Arthur claims to have taken an important part in securing for you the ballot!!! but working men are not to be caught by such "chaff." They know enough of the political history of their country, to remember that far more thanks are due to the once despised and yet dreaded advanced Liberal leaders, and such M.P.'s as the late Henry Berkeley, M.P. for Bristol, who by long years of toil and suffering, won the book for you when "squeezable" M.P.'s were on the other side of the House; and do not forget that both the father and the uncle of Mr. Biggs recorded their votes in the House of Commons for the ballot years before Lord Arthur Russell had the opportunity to record his vote, or lift up his eloquent voice in favour of the measure!. - [Tavistock?, 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 26 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-01-31. Elector. Tavistock election. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, On Wednesday next, you will have to perform the serious duty of electing your Parliamentary representative. Your choice will lie between your old, tried and experienced member, and an unknown and inexperienced stranger. ... Lord Arthur Russell is a thoroughly well-informed politician, capable of grasping both the principles and details of great political questions. His opponent has hitherto displayed only a capacity to understand the Ballot Act as a secret mode of voting. ... But who is Mr. Biggs? .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , 1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 45 x 27 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell.
Signed and dated at foot: An elector. Tavistock, 31st January, 1874. Text printed in two columns. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1874-02-04. Tavistock election. Tavistock February 4th. Mr. Gilson Martin, the Duke's steward, said last night - I am very glad that this election is under the ballot, because, since it is impossible for me ever to kn[ow] how any of you .... - [Tavistock] : [s. n.] , [1874]. - 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 43 x 26 cm. - Concerning the 1874 Parliamentary election, when the candidates for the Borough of Tavistock were Russell Hugh Worthington Biggs and Lord Arthur Russell. - Held by: British Library.

Tavistock. 1880-03-12. Russell, Arthur. Tavistock. 1880. To the electors of the Borough of Tavistock. Gentlemen, The ministers having advised the Queen to dissolve the present Parliament, I shall solicit at the coming election a renewal of your confidence. ... : The peace of Europe, says Lord Beaconsfield, can only be kept by the ascendancy of England, and he promises you, if you will vote for him, an ascendancy in the councils of Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Rome, St. Petersburg, which he has hitherto signally failed to establish even in the councils of the Sultan. But the true ascendancy of England, gentlemen. does not depend on vain boasting and empty threats, but on showing to Europe the living example of a free, well-governed, and prosperous State, ... -[London, 1880] . – 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 26 x 21 cm. - Signed and dated at foot: Arthur Russell. House of Commons, 12th March, 1880.- Held by: British Library.